ULSTER University and Dell Technologies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) which will see both organisations work together to develop emerging technology that will advance research in digital health and drive innovation in screen and media.
Building on the ambition set out in the new Belfast Region City Deal, the partnership will see Dell support the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI), the internet of things (IoT) and edge computing at the new Centre for Digital Healthcare Technology.
This will enable scientists, start-ups and technology experts to develop life-changing treatments in the areas of cardiology and respiratory, accelerated by the launch of a new high productivity clinical living-lab based within the hospital setting.
The second initiative to be rolled out under the MOU will see a dedicated test-bed for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) put in place at the new screen and media innovation labs.
Providing access to latest innovations in technology will help to ensure the north’s successful creative industry remains a global leader by transforming screen production and content creation.
Dell Technologies has agreed to sponsor two PhD researchers at Ulster University, one focussing on data analytics in healthcare and the other to support the digital transformation of the region’s creative industries.
Ulster University vice-chancellor Professor Paddy Nixon said: “The Belfast Region City Deal provides an unparalleled opportunity to achieve economic growth and prosperity for the region.
“Our partnership with Dell Technologies will act as a catalyst to develop technology and advance research with impact locally, nationally and internationally.
“Ulster University’s world class researchers and facilities supported by Dell will deliver life changing health outcomes for patients and will transform the creative industries in Northern Ireland.”
Mark Hopkins, general manager of Dell Technologies Ireland, said: “We’re excited to partner with Ulster University to help realise the ambition set out in the City Deal to transform Northern Ireland’s innovation and digital capabilities. This partnership will prove to be game changing for the capital.
“Through the use of AI, edge computing and other emerging technologies, we can help transform healthcare outcomes for patients, provide our creative industries with the digital tools to succeed and above all build a vibrant start-up ecosystem that delivers growth and jobs. We look forward to working with Ulster University to making this vision a reality.”
